The sound of music is permeating campus as the Laker Marching Band with assistant professor John Martin, director of Athletic Bands, gears up for a new season during Band Camp through August 26. A performance practice area, outside the Performing Arts Center, was improved this summer, including a new drainage system and a stationary director’s tower.

The band, now with more than 200 members, will perform at home football games, many campus events and during the kickoff to ArtPrize on September 18, at Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids. Each home game performance brings a new show, with music ranging from the songs of Elton John, Pink and Toby Keith, to Herbie Hancock, an Armed Forces medley and a Disney Circle Drill show.

Band members are also excited to show off their new uniforms, with a modern design which they chose. The white front piece has the clean blue “GV” logo outlined in black, while the back has “Grand Valley” in white block lettering. “They are more athletic without a sash, and will be easier to perform in,” said Martin. “The students gave up their performance stipend and contributed the funds toward the cost of new uniforms, so they are very excited and proud.”